Trust FundsIntermediateAlabama Exam

A broker who holds earnest money from a buyer and the deal falls through due to a contract dispute must:

AReturn the money to the buyer immediately without question
BKeep the money in the trust account until the dispute is resolved or AREC provides guidanceCorrect
CDeposit the money into the broker's operating account for safekeeping, under standard practice
DSend the money to the seller's attorney

Why Keep the money in the trust account until the dispute is resolved or AREC provides guidance Is Correct

Answer B: Keep the money in the trust account until the dispute is resolved or AREC provides guidance

When there is a dispute over earnest money, the broker must keep the funds in the trust account and may not release them without the written agreement of both parties or a court order. Releasing disputed funds without authorization can result in license disciplinary action.

Exam Tip: Trust Funds

Trust fund questions test the rules for handling client money. Know the deadlines for depositing trust funds, what constitutes commingling vs. conversion, and the penalties for violations.

Key Trust Funds Terms in This Question

People Also Study

Math Concepts

State-Specific Concepts

Trust Account RulesAREC Regulation

Practice More Alabama Real Estate Questions

1,500+ questions covering all exam topics. Start free — no signup required.

Take the Free Alabama Quiz →